Page 56 - (DK Eyewitness) Travel Guide - Venice & The Veneto

54  INTRODUCING VENICE AND THE VENE T O

Venice Preserved

In November 1966 Venice was hit by the worst
floods in its history, sparking worldwide concern for
the future of the city’s delicate and decaying fabric.
Major steps have since been taken to protect Venice
and its unique heritage, though many difficult issues
remain. However, several of the region’s great craft
traditions are kept alive in the work of local artisans Boating Traditions
The proud boating traditions of this
and the allure of Venice, set in its watery lagoon, waterborne city can be seen in the many
is as compelling as ever. regatas held during the summer months.

Venice as Film Set
Venice has served as the backdrop
to countless films, including Fellini’s
Casanova (1976) and Indiana Jones
and the Last Crusade (1989).

The Regata Storica, held in
September, is an annual trial of
strength and skill for gondoliers.
Tourism
Venetian regattas are part of a rich
tradition that enhances the city’s
attraction to tourists, providing
After the Flood
During the 1966 floods, the employment for many on the
waters rose nearly 2 m mainland as well as in Venice itself.
(6 ft). Great damage was However, since the number of daily
done by fuel oil, washed visitors often exceeds the city’s
out of broken tanks. It is population, some complain that
now banned from the city tourism has turned Venice from a
in favour of gas. living city into one vast museum.

1978 Patriarch 1988 First 1994 Voters decide against a divorce
1966 Floods cause Luciani of experimental between Venice and Mestre, which
devastation in Venice. 1973 Laws passed to Venice elected Carnival stage of MOSE, 1992 Venice share a mayor and city council
UNESCO launches its reduce pollution, Pope John reveller the lagoon Film Festival
Save Venice appeal subsidence and Paul I, but dies flood barrier, is celebrates
flooding 33 days later completed 60 years
1960 1975 1990
1968 Protestors prevent part of the 1979 Venetian 1983 Venice 1992 Venice
lagoon being drained to extend Carnival is revived officially stops rocked by
Marghera’s industrial zone sinking after corruption
Visconti and Dirk extraction of scandals. Metro
1970 Luchino Visconti’s Bogarde on the set underground network beneath
film Death in Venice of Death in Venice water prohibited lagoon proposed

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